    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2004, Book III)]
    [December 7, 2004]
    [Pages 3056-3057]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Message on the Observance of Hanukkah 2004
    December 7, 2004

        I send greetings to all those celebrating Hanukkah, the festival of
    lights.
        On the 25th day of Kislev on the Hebrew calendar, Jews around the
    world commemorate the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem more than
    2,000 years ago. During this time of darkness, the Temple had been
    seized, and Judaism had been outlawed. Judah Maccabee and his followers
    fought for three years for their freedom and successfully recaptured
    Jerusalem and the Temple. Jewish tradition teaches that the Maccabees
    found only one small bottle of oil to be used for temple rituals, but
    that oil lasted eight days and nights. The miracle of this enduring
    light, remembered through the lighting of the Menorah, continues to
    symbolize the triumph of faith over tyranny.
        The bravery of the Maccabees has provided inspiration through the
    ages. We must remain steadfast and courageous as we seek to spread peace
    and freedom throughout the world. This holiday season, we give thanks to
    God, and we remember the brave men and women of our Armed Forces and
    their families. We also pray that all who live under oppression will see
    their day of freedom and that the light of faith will always shine
    through the darkness.
        Laura joins me in wishing you a blessed and
    Happy Hanukkah.

                                                              George W. Bush

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    this message.

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